The Legend of Wonder Woman #9 (DC Comics)

The Titan has awoken, forcing Wonder Woman to confront her most powerful foe. Her friends would stand behind her, but they’ve got their own battles to fight! And as Diana tries to keep the Titan from destroying the families in the battle zone, she calls upon the magic of Gaia.

Why does this book matter?

This digital first series (we’re reviewing the paper version) has captured the hearts of many due to its ability to show us a younger Diana (who’s tied more to WW2 than the current one) and give us a slice of the character some of us grew up with. Wonder Woman is a woman in this series and not just a superhero. With a story written and pencilled by Renae De Liz you know you’re getting the heart of an artist too. Plus there’s tons of action!

Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?

New readers can dig this issue; The Legend of Wonder Woman #9 is accessible because the story is contained enough to offer interesting reveals and drama that’ll grip you right off the bat. We open on a giant monster – who’s somewhat beautiful – and then are quickly reminded by Wonder Woman’s supporting cast he’s anything but beautiful. From there a well captioned dream sequence of sorts explains the universe. If you’re a fan of creation stories you’ve come to the right place. We learn more about the monster, but also about Wonder Woman. Renae De Liz does a fantastic job tying her to the beast and making you believe it’s only Wonder Woman who can stop it. A true hero!

A pretty monster indeed.

The action scenes are quite something too. Wonder Woman kicks a lot of ass in this issue and Renae De Liz gives her plenty to punch among good colors, inks and letters from Ray Dillon. A well-timed reveal of the monster gives the action extra purpose and direction too just when it needs it. This helps punch up the big climactic moment and give the action an extra boost. The fact that the action is kicked off by Diana making a big choice also serves to give this action meaning. It’ll be interesting to see what Wonder Woman purists think of what Renae De Liz reveals in this issue.

There’s also a satisfying epilogue of sorts which – like the best of stories – reveals no story is truly over. It’s a bit sad, but luckily we’re given a reason to smile on the very last page. It’s a perfect send off for the series.

It can’t be perfect can it?

The big ideas and creation story in this story does have a ring of deus ex machina to it. Now, considering Wonder Woman is sort of like a Greek myth maybe it fits perfectly, but it does ring a bit hollow in that way.

“Test your might.”

Is It Good?

The Legend of Wonder Woman #9 is a perfect issue in so many ways. The action is gripping and tied to the character and story; the climax is satisfying; and we learn new things about the villain and hero. By issue’s end, you won’t be able to deny that Renae De Liz is a fantastic storyteller.